POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR POSITION AVAILABLE IN HABITAT CONNECTIVITY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AT UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY We are seeking a post-doctoral scholar to work with leading experts researching connectivity and climate change science as part of the California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. The project entails a review of topics related to habitat connectivity and climate change that relies on information gained from existing scholarships to address fundamental questions about the theory, methods, and utility of migration corridors as a biodiversity adaptation strategy to climate change in California. This information can ultimately be used to inform future approaches to analysis, conservation planning, and implementation. In addition, as part of the review process, the post-doc will identify places where there may be gaps in the evidence. Three major topics need to be covered in the review of the literature: (1) analysis of methods used to integrate connectivity and climate change science, (2) climate refugia and velocity, and (3) barriers and opportunities related to corridor planning and implementation. All three topics will address the overarching objectives: 1) How can we best maintain and restore habitat connectivity? 2) What missing information should be a research priority, and how can we improve systematic connectivity planning? 3) What do we need to do differently to advance habitat connectivity on the ground given the forces of climate change? Each topical review will address specific questions and challenging issues, and will include a case study from California based on work by the investigators and collaborators to help illustrate some of the take-home points presented in the review.
The successful candidate will lead the project, requiring expertise in habitat connectivity, climate change adaptation, literature reviews, and will be supervised by Adina Merenlender (ESPM UC Berkeley). Experience with systematic reviews including meta-analytic statistical methods is preferred. The fellow will also be expected to help organize collaborative meetings and online communication among the team of investigators and help engage broader participation by knowledgeable scientists and practitioners. This is an excellent opportunity to delve deeply into connectivity science, connect with leading academics, and make a contribution with real world implications for climate adaptation. The successful candidate will be able to investigate the field thoroughly, publish, and work on proposals for future collaborative research based on the insights gained from the reviews. Adina Merenlender (PI, UC Berkeley), David Ackerly (co-PI, UC Berkeley), Jim Thorne (co-PI, UC Davis), Dick Cameron (TNC), Lee Hannah (CI), Nicole Heller (POST), Patrick Huber (UC Davis), Carrie Schloss (TNC), and Sam Veloz (Point Blue). Recruitment Period First application review date: March 11th, 2016 Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee. Final date: April 1st, 2016 Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled. QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must have a PhD or equivalent degree in conservation science or related field by appointment start date (JULY 1, 2016) PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS The successful candidate should have a demonstrated interest and expertise in one or more of the following areas: habitat connectivity, landscape ecology, spatially explicit modeling, climate change science, interdisciplinary science, and collaborative conservation. APPOINTMENT The anticipated start date for this appointment is July 1, 2016. The initial appointment is for 18 months, with renewal based on performance and funding. This is a full-time appointment. SALARY AND BENEFITS Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and based on UC Berkeley Postdoc salary scale. The annual salary range for this position is $43,692 to $51,120. Generous benefits are included (http://vspa.berkeley.edu/postdocs) TO APPLY Visit: (https://aprecruit.berkeley.edu/apply/JPF00983) Interested individuals should include a 1-2 page cover letter describing their research experience, along with a current CV and the names and contact information of three references. Letters of references may be requested for finalists. It is optional to include a statement addressing past and/or potential contributions to diversity through research, teaching, and/or service. This position will remain open until filled. Questions regarding this recruitment can be directed to Maria P. Arañas at [email protected]. All letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law. Please refer potential referees, including when letters are provided via a third party (i.e. dossier service or career center) to the UC Berkeley Statement of Confidentiality (http://apo.berkeley.edu/evalltr.html) prior to submitting their letters. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000376/NondiscrimAffirmAct. The Department is interested in candidates who will contribute to diversity and equal opportunity in higher education through their research or teaching. The University of California, Berkeley has an excellent benefits package as well as a number of policies and programs in place to support employees as they balance work and family.
